When we think about Little House on the Prairie, it’s easy to picture golden fields, bustling homesteads, and family gathered around the fire. But just as important to Laura’s story—and to so many of ours—were the teachers who helped shape young minds along the way.
Remember Miss Eva Beadle? With her kind heart and steady patience, she was the very first teacher to welcome Laura and Mary into the Walnut Grove schoolhouse. Then there was Eliza Jane Wilder, Almanzo’s sister, who brought a bit more structure and formality (and a few memorable moments of strictness!) to the classroom. And let’s not forget Etta Plum, who continued the tradition of compassion, education, and community connection as the town grew.
And of course, we couldn't forget that Laura was a Walnut Grove teacher, herself!
Each of these teachers brought something special to the prairie—guidance, wisdom, encouragement—and left their mark on a generation.
And it’s no different today.
Teachers shape our futures with every lesson taught, every word of encouragement, every moment they believe in us before we believe in ourselves. This Teacher Appreciation Month, we're taking a moment to honor them—both the ones we grew up watching and the ones who made a real difference in our own lives.
The Thank-a-Teacher Giveaway
Here's how to enter:
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Comment below and tell us which Little House on the Prairie teacher was your favorite.
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Share a few words about your own favorite teacher—the one who left a lasting impact on your life.
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You may also enter by commenting on our Thank-a-Teacher Post on Facebook & Instagram, for a total of 3 entries per person.
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One lucky winner from each platform will receive a $75 Modern Prairie gift card! (3 winners total)
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Please, only ONE entry per post.
- Winners will be announced on Monday May 12th, 2025
Every story you share is a small way to say "thank you"—and it just might win you a $75 gift card in our Thank-a-Teacher Giveaway!
Because the lessons that stay with us forever didn’t just come from books or family members. They came from the hearts of incredible teachers. 💛
We can't wait to hear your stories!
57 comments
Ms. Breadle!! Growing up in the military we traveled all over!! She reminds me of Ms. Booth, my 3rd grade teacher! She knew my fears, and lovingly moved me forward to find my courage in a new school!!
I loved seeing Laura become a teacher. I know how hard it is the first time you’re in front of a class. My favorite teacher was our history teacher in High School. Because we were all new students to a new high school, he taught local geography and then history and civics. He took the time to help us all. He has passed on, but made a real contention with us. But for me, personally, he helped me wake up to too the world and who I wanted to be.
Miss Wagner, Hayfork Elementary early 1980’s. She was sweet and gave beautiful gifts. I’ll never forget the thrill of reading a book and adding it to Harold J Bookworm that wound around the room.
I liked both Miss Beadle AND I loved to see Laura become a teacher, too.
I had many teachers that I could choose as my favorite, but I’ll have to say my favorite was my great aunt, who was a teacher in S. Dakota in a one room school house like in LHOTP. My time with my great aunt was after she had retired, but she was still a wonderful teacher for me growing up!
Miss Beadle was my favorite. She was so compassionate, sweet tempered and passionate about her job. Despite her limited resources, I mean she only used chalk for the most part and the readers, she provided a nurturing environment in which students thrived. I also admired her kept composure-she always looked pretty and organized. I teach art class and by the end of the day I’m a mess.